Publicly Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

Sociology

• Public discourse often shapes societal norms and values, allowing diverse viewpoints to be heard.
• The concept of what is 'publicly acceptable' can vary widely between cultures and historical periods.
• Publicly shared opinions can lead to social movements when large groups rally around a common cause.

Media and Communication

• With the rise of social media, 'publicly' has taken on new dimensions, where even private individuals can share thoughts widely.
• Publicly available information can sometimes be misinterpreted or misused, leading to misinformation.
• Journalism relies on the public nature of facts to inform citizens and hold power to account.

Law

• In legal contexts, actions taken publicly are usually more scrutinized than those done privately, to ensure accountability.
• Publicly accessible records, such as court documents, play a vital role in transparency in governance.
• Laws often differentiate between actions taken in public versus those in private to protect individual rights.

Cultural Significance

• Cultural events, like festivals, are celebrated publicly, fostering community bonds among participants.
• Public performances, like concerts or plays, are important art forms that strengthen cultural identity.
• The idea of publicly sharing personal stories can empower individuals and create support networks.

Main points about word origin

• The word 'publicly' comes from the Latin root 'publicus', meaning 'of the people' or 'belonging to the people'.
• It evolved in Middle English as 'publicli' before taking its modern form, reflecting a growing interest in social issues.
• The shift from private to public discussions in societies is captured in the transition from the Latin to the English use of the term.

The word 'publicly' originated from the Middle English word 'publicli', which was derived from the Old French word 'publicement'. It has been used in the English language since the 14th century. The adverb 'publicly' emphasizes the concept of openness, accessibility, and sharing among all people.

See also: publications, publicity, publicize, publicizer.

With rank #4,598, this word represents useful upper-intermediate vocabulary. Understanding and using it will help you express more complex ideas effectively.

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• 4595 environments
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• 4597 rejection
• 4598 publicly
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• 4600 advise
• 4601 condemned
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